Whitefield also inspired the publication of evangelical magazines, which sprang up throughout the colonies to praise his amazing successes. Eventually he became notorious for his abusiveness, and critics accused him of simply engaging in self-promotion. Nevertheless historians now recognize Whitefield as having made a significant impact on religion in the United States.
Leaves Family Business
George Whitefield was born on December 16, 1714, in Gloucester, England, the youngest of six children of Thomas and Elizabeth (Edwards) Whitefield. His parents were innkeepers in Gloucester, and upon Thomas's death in 1716 Elizabeth took over operation of the inn. In 1724, when Whitefield was ten, his mother married an iron seller named Longden. During his childhood Whitefield had the measles, which left him with crossed eyes and a squint. His mother wanted him to have a good education, so she sent him to St. Mary de Crypt school in Gloucester. He was a mediocre student but he excelled in drama, reportedly performing female roles in school productions. When he was fifteen he decided to leave St. Mary de Crypt, and for the next year and a half he worked at the inn as a "common drawer" (bartender).
This is a free page. This page contains 186 words. This
article contains 2,197 words (approx. 7 pages at 300
words per page).
Read the rest of this Article with our Whitefield, George Access Pass.
